Armistice Day 2025: A Poignant Tribute Across Communities
Today, across the world, communities paused to honor those who sacrificed their lives in wars past and present, as Armistice Day 2025 was observed with solemnity and reverence. In Monmouth, the historic ceremony at the Haberdashers’ Monmouth School captured the spirit of remembrance, bringing together pupils, staff, alumni, and distinguished guests. At the eleventh hour of the eleventh day, a hushed stillness fell over the Chapel, where attendees sought quiet reflection under the soft drizzle and grey skies.
This year’s service held special significance with the presence of Mrs Aldyth Davies, the second cousin of Captain Angus Buchanan VC, one of the school’s most distinguished former pupils. Captain Buchanan, who served with extraordinary bravery in the First World War, was awarded the Victoria Cross and later lost his sight in combat. Yet his remarkable journey continued at Oxford University, where he was supported by Mrs Davies’ father as his personal reader and companion. Mrs Davies, now 92, expressed deep emotion as she viewed a recently gifted bronze bust of Buchanan, remarking on the enduring legacy and high esteem in which he is held.
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The ceremony was led by Mother Alycia, the school chaplain, supported by members of the Royal Naval Association Monmouth Branch. Pupils from Years 6, 7, and 8 stood in respectful silence, reflecting on the sacrifice of those who gave their lives. Readings and recitations, including the timeless “They Shall Grow Not Old” by Head Girl Lily R, and “When You Go Home” read by Headmaster Melvyn Roffe, wove a thread of reflection through the service. Mr Roffe spoke passionately about the school’s duty to honor its past and instill an understanding of the true cost of freedom for future generations.
Wreath-laying formed a deeply symbolic part of the service, with tributes carried out by students, alumni, and members of the Royal British Legion and Royal Naval Association. Among them were Head Boy Feargus C, Prep School representatives, and veterans like Maggie Douglas, who laid their wreaths with pride. Tony Martin and John Walker, long-serving standard bearers, expressed admiration for the school’s steadfast commitment to remembrance, noting how these rituals foster community unity and respect for history.
Across Monmouthshire, similar ceremonies were held to commemorate the centenary of the First World War’s aftermath and other conflicts. Parades were led by cadets from the Haberdashers’ School, accompanied by Monmouth Town Band, choir members, and students from local schools, all contributing to the solemnity and shared reflection. Wreaths were laid by representatives from emergency services, local organizations, and refugee groups, demonstrating how remembrance unites communities across generations.
As the Last Post echoed through chapels and public squares, followed by a moment of silence, the message of Armistice Day was clear: remembrance is more than a ceremony—it is a living commitment to honor sacrifice, uphold peace, and inspire gratitude. Today’s tributes serve as a reminder that in remembering the past, communities nurture hope, unity, and the enduring value of peace for the future.
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